Renovate without increasing your carbon footprint

Planning more to waste less

Temptation is everywhere. A small upgrade here, a more stylish option there... and suddenly, the project is out of control. And so are the costs.

Before going all out, take a step back. Why? To avoid impulse buys and unnecessary renovations, which could end up wasting a lot of materials for little gain.

A few project-related questions to ask yourself:

• Is all the work necessary? Did I make any rash decisions?
• Are there any renovations that could have a positive impact on my quality of life, energy consumption and the sustainability of my home?
• Can I plan my project in a way that minimizes waste and avoids tedious trips to the hardware store?

When planning a project, start at the end. How will you dispose of the construction waste? Not everything should end up in a landfill. After sorting, you can:

• Donate or sell items that are still useful.
• Drop off materials at a recycling centre.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

When renovating, the tendency is to buy brand new. However, many things can be reused or transformed to create an original decor.

• Solid wood cabinets can be sanded down and revarnished.
• Countertops can be repurposed or upcycled (e.g. serving tray).
• Ceramic tiles can be regrouted or turned into a beautiful backsplash.
• Reclaimed wood is great for shelving, benches or built-ins.

With a bit of imagination, some online tutorials as well as a little or a lot of professional help, you can create something that will turn heads.

Opt for more sustainable materials

Although new materials are often attractive, trendy and inexpensive, they can come at a significant environmental cost. Find out where they’re manufactured, what they're made of, and how they're produced.

Focus on:

• Recycled, recyclable or renewable materials, such as recycled concrete, eco-friendly insulation panels, recycled paper and cardboard bricks, etc.
• FSC®-certified wood
• Paints, glues and finishes low in volatile organic compounds (VOC)
• Products with a long lifespan and low maintenance requirements

Whenever possible, choose local suppliers. That way, you reduce the pollution and help in the local economy.

Improve energy efficiency

Renovating should be seen as an opportunity to increase your home’s energy efficiency. Small changes can result in significant energy savings, especially in winter.

Consider:

• Improving the insulation in your walls, roof space and basement floor.
• Upgrading to energy-efficient windows.
• Replacing your fuel-oil heating system with a greener system.
• Installing ENERGY STAR®-certified appliances.
• Using smart technology like thermostats, LED lighting, etc.

What’s more? There are financial assistance programs available for this kind of work. Find out more before you start because a little financial help can go a long way.

Work with eco-friendly contractors

An eco-friendly approach applies to more than just the materials. It also applies to the manpower. Work with professionals who integrate eco-friendly practices into their methods or who have environmental certification.

Choose a company that:

• Sorts waste and redirects it to the appropriate place.
• Favours local or sustainable products.
• Opts to repair rather than replace, whenever possible.
• Finds solutions to maximize energy savings.
• Listens, is up to date and never pushes to do more than necessary.

Renovate better, for longer

A good renovation project is one that shouldn't have to be redone in two years. Especially when you consider the cost of materials!

It's a good idea to invest in:

• Quality doors and windows
• Sturdy, durable flooring
• Reliable, low-maintenance equipment

With extreme weather events on the rise, investing in durable materials is the smart thing to do. For example, an epoxy floor in the basement will withstand water damage much better than a floating floor, which would need to be completely replaced.

And beware of trends. Ask yourself if you’ll still like it in five years? Some options are timeless, cost-effective and worthwhile.

What about insurance?

While not the most fun part, it's essential.

Consider:

• Informing your insurer about your renovations.
• Checking whether the renovations are covered.
• Keeping invoices, quotes and other important documents.

Once the work is done, a quick call to your insurer will avoid unpleasant surprises. Improvements may change the value of your home and affect your home insurance coverage.